When an organization is birthed out of a desire to "become the voice that will advocate for positive influence", all its activities must be geared in that direction.That's exactly what happened on June 22^nd 2018 when COIF hosted its first women's conference in The Gambia. The theme of the conference "Restoring Lost Dignity" drew an audience size of more than 200 women from different walks of life.

Our founder – Dr. Margaret Ellis spoke about the circumstances that lead to a woman feeling like she has lost her dignity and left the audience with profound wisdom that a woman can bring value to the world around them when she understands who she is and the gifts and influence that she carries.  "When a woman refuses to play along or complain about the ills of society", said Ellis, she will find the power to use her gift of influence to build her life, her home, her community, her nation and the world around her".  Ellis shared her belief that if a woman understands her purpose, she can beat the odds of negative labeling and self-limiting beliefs.

The guest speaker – Pastor Elizabeth (Tis) Joh from Dakar, Senegal added the cherry on top when she imparted hope, vision and inspiration in the women to seek a deep understanding of who they are and connect to the source of their existence – God.  It was a beautiful sight to see women connecting, networking and encouraging each other.

This is the essence of who we are.  Coaches of Influence Foundation exists to influence identity.